Social Stories were developed by Carol Gray as ‘a social learning tool that supports the safe and meaningful exchange of information between parents, professionals and people with autism of all ages’. Short descriptions of a situation or event, Social Stories contain specific information about what the reader can expect and why. They present information in a literal ‘concrete’ way, which may improve a pupil’s understanding of a previously difficult or ambiguous situation or activity.

The aim of a Social Story could be:

• Develop appropriate behaviour, self-care skills (e.g. washing hands, toileting), social skills (e.g. sharing, queueing, asking for help) and academic abilities.
• Develop an increased understanding of a given situation resulting in reduced anxiety levels before, during and after the situation it describes.  They are especially useful for helping pupils cope with changes to routine and unexpected or distressing events (e.g. change of adults in the classroom, moving house, thunderstorms). 
• Help a pupil understand how they or others might behave or respond in a particular situation.

Social Stories are used across The Collett School to help pupils with behaviours, situations or activities that they find challenging or confusing.  The presentation and content of a social story varies according to the situation and needs of the pupil.